Shakira, the Colombian sensation, has captivated audiences worldwide with her unique blend of Latin rhythms, pop melodies, and powerful lyrics. Since her debut in the early ’90s, she has transformed from a teen prodigy into a global icon, known for her unmistakable voice and irresistible dance moves. With a career spanning over two decades, Shakira has released countless hits that have topped charts and resonated with fans across cultures.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Shakira songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that not only showcase her extraordinary talent but also reflect her evolution as an artist. From infectious dance anthems to heartfelt ballads, each song tells a story and evokes a range of emotions. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or newly discovering her music, this list captures the essence of Shakira’s artistry and the magic she brings to the stage. Get ready to relive the moments that made us dance, sing, and connect with her unforgettable melodies. Join us as we explore the songs that define Shakira’s legacy and continue to resonate with fans around the globe!
1. “Hips Don’t Lie” (2006)
“Hips Don’t Lie” is a global dance anthem that captures Shakira at her most energetic and magnetic. Released in 2006 and featuring Wyclef Jean, the track was an explosive fusion of Latin, reggae, and hip-hop influences that became an instant hit around the world. The song is powered by an irresistible rhythm, layered percussion, and that unforgettable horn sample, creating a vibrant, infectious groove that demands movement. Shakira’s vocals are playful and sultry, delivering lines that celebrate confidence, sensuality, and the joy of dancing freely.
Wyclef Jean’s charismatic presence adds a dynamic flair, making their collaboration feel organic and electrifying. The lyrics embrace the idea that the body doesn’t lie—it expresses emotion and passion in the purest way. The accompanying music video is just as iconic, featuring Shakira’s signature belly dancing and stunning choreography, all set against a colorful, high-energy backdrop.
“Hips Don’t Lie” didn’t just top the charts—it broke cultural barriers, becoming a universal party staple. It marked a turning point in Shakira’s crossover success, proving her ability to blend global sounds into mainstream pop. More than a hit song, it’s a celebration of rhythm, self-expression, and the power of music to bring people together.
2. “Whenever, Wherever” (2001)
“Whenever, Wherever” is the track that introduced Shakira’s unique artistry to the global stage, marking her English-language debut in 2001. With a fusion of Andean instrumentation—featuring pan flutes and charango—and catchy pop-rock rhythms, the song struck a chord worldwide. Shakira’s distinctive voice, full of emotion and grit, shines brightly as she sings about a love so strong that no distance or circumstance can stand in its way.
The lyrics are poetic and playful, embracing the idea of fate and the mysterious forces that bring two people together. With lines like “Lucky that my lips not only mumble,” Shakira injects her quirky charm and unmistakable personality into the track. The music video is equally unforgettable, showcasing her dancing barefoot across deserts, oceans, and mountains—symbolizing the boundless nature of love.
“Whenever, Wherever” became a massive international success and helped redefine what a global pop hit could sound like. It blended cultures, languages, and genres in a way that was fresh and exciting. This song wasn’t just a breakout moment—it was a declaration of Shakira’s artistic identity and a promise that she would continue to blur musical boundaries for years to come.
3. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010)
“Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” is a joyful, infectious anthem that united the world during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. With a powerful blend of African rhythms, inspirational lyrics, and Shakira’s exuberant vocals, the song captured the spirit of the tournament—and more importantly, the spirit of unity and celebration. Featuring the South African group Freshlyground, the track is built on the catchy chorus from the Cameroonian song “Zangaléwa,” giving it deep cultural roots.
From the very first beat, “Waka Waka” invites listeners to rise up, push forward, and believe in their strength. It’s an anthem of perseverance, courage, and global togetherness. The music video, filled with scenes of soccer players, fans, and vibrant dancing, became a visual celebration of diversity and passion for the game.
The song topped charts in multiple countries and became one of the best-selling World Cup songs of all time. But beyond its commercial success, “Waka Waka” became a symbol of joy and pride, especially for African fans and artists. It showcased Shakira’s commitment to honoring different cultures through music, making it a timeless and uplifting track that continues to resonate long after the games ended.
4. “Underneath Your Clothes” (2002)
“Underneath Your Clothes” is a tender love ballad that reveals a more vulnerable side of Shakira. Released in 2002, the song blends soft rock influences with heartfelt lyrics, offering a glimpse into the emotional depths of a committed relationship. With its warm melodies and gentle instrumentation, the track departs from Shakira’s usual rhythmic energy and instead showcases her storytelling and vocal intimacy.
Lyrically, the song speaks of unconditional love, appreciation, and emotional security. Lines like “You’re every song, and I sing along” reflect the comfort and joy found in deep emotional connection. Shakira’s vocal delivery is raw and passionate, perfectly capturing the delicate balance between strength and sensitivity that love often requires.
The accompanying music video adds a layer of visual storytelling, highlighting moments of tenderness and affection that bring the lyrics to life. It complements the song’s tone with its soft lighting and romantic imagery.
“Underneath Your Clothes” solidified Shakira’s versatility—not just as a performer who could deliver high-energy anthems, but as a songwriter capable of expressing complex emotions. It remains one of her most beloved ballads, resonating with anyone who has ever found comfort and beauty in being truly known and accepted by someone they love.
5. “She Wolf” (2009)
“She Wolf” is a daring, electrifying departure from Shakira’s usual sound, showcasing her artistic evolution and fearless experimentation. Released in 2009, the track dives into disco, electro-pop, and funk, creating a sleek, futuristic atmosphere that pulses with energy. The song is an ode to feminine liberation and sensual awakening, with Shakira embodying the metaphorical “she wolf”—a woman breaking free from social expectations and embracing her primal instincts.
The lyrics are playful and provocative, detailing a yearning for freedom and a life that’s uninhibited and alive. Shakira’s vocal delivery is sultry yet quirky, with unique phrasings that make the track instantly recognizable. The howling in the chorus adds an unforgettable touch of theatricality, reinforcing the wild, rebellious tone.
Visually, the music video is a feast of surreal, stylized imagery—Shakira contorting inside a golden cage, dancing in a cave, and moving with fluid, animal-like grace. Every frame accentuates the song’s message of transformation and self-empowerment.
“She Wolf” was a bold move that paid off, earning acclaim for its innovation and energy. It reminded the world that Shakira is not just a pop star—she’s a fearless artist who constantly reinvents herself, unafraid to take risks and speak through both sound and movement.
6. “La Tortura” (2005)
“La Tortura” is a passionate and emotionally charged duet between Shakira and Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz that beautifully blends reggaeton with Latin pop and flamenco influences. Released in 2005, the song dives deep into the pain and complexity of love, particularly the torment of betrayal and the conflicting emotions that follow. Shakira’s vocals are raw and expressive, capturing both vulnerability and defiance, while Sanz’s raspy delivery brings a grounded, introspective contrast.
The lyrics are a poetic conversation between two lovers, filled with regret, longing, and unresolved tension. It’s a song that captures the push and pull of a relationship marked by desire and heartache. The chemistry between the two artists is palpable, both in their vocals and in the sensual, visually arresting music video, which features symbolic imagery of love, loss, and resilience.
“La Tortura” was a groundbreaking moment for Latin music in the mainstream pop world. It topped charts across multiple countries and was one of the first major hits to bring reggaeton into the global spotlight. More than just a hit, it’s a masterclass in storytelling and emotional expression—a song that aches, pulses, and ultimately resonates with anyone who has endured the beautiful torment of love.
7. “Loca” (2010)
“Loca” is a high-energy explosion of joy and spontaneity that perfectly captures Shakira’s free-spirited nature. Released in 2010 and featuring Dominican rapper El Cata, this vibrant track blends merengue, reggaeton, and dance-pop, creating an upbeat and infectious rhythm that’s impossible to resist. The song is all about living in the moment, following your heart, and embracing your wild, untamed side without apology.
Shakira’s playful vocals, delivered with both flair and a hint of rebellion, tell the story of someone completely lost in love—and completely unbothered by what others think. It’s a celebration of freedom and fun, with lyrics that are flirty, fearless, and filled with charisma. El Cata’s energetic verses complement Shakira’s style perfectly, adding a dash of grit and flair to the track.
The music video matches the song’s carefree energy, showing Shakira dancing in the streets, riding a motorcycle into a fountain, and having the time of her life. “Loca” became a global hit and a club favorite, showing once again Shakira’s ability to cross cultural boundaries with music that makes people move. It’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever been unapologetically bold in love—and a little bit crazy because of it.
8. “Ojos Así” (1998)
“Ojos Así” is one of the most defining songs of Shakira’s early career, a mesmerizing blend of Arabic, rock, and Latin musical influences that captures her multicultural artistry and poetic sensibility. Released in 1998, the song is a sonic journey filled with rich textures, exotic rhythms, and haunting melodies. Its title, which translates to “Eyes Like Yours,” is a tribute to a lover with captivating eyes—and the emotional longing that follows their memory.
Sung in Spanish with a few Arabic phrases, the lyrics reflect themes of love, distance, and obsession, all delivered through Shakira’s powerful, emotive voice. She moves between soft vulnerability and fierce intensity, showcasing the dynamic vocal control that would later become her trademark. The instrumentation—marked by driving percussion and Middle Eastern melodies—adds depth and drama to the experience.
The music video further emphasizes the song’s mystique, featuring Shakira in flowing costumes, tribal dance sequences, and desert landscapes. “Ojos Así” not only solidified her reputation in the Latin music world but also hinted at her global potential. It’s a bold and beautiful reminder of Shakira’s deep cultural roots and her innate ability to create music that’s both deeply personal and universally moving.
9. “Empire” (2014)
“Empire” is a soaring, emotionally rich ballad that showcases Shakira’s impressive vocal range and dramatic flair. Released in 2014 as part of her self-titled album, the song represents a powerful mix of alternative rock and pop, featuring sweeping instrumentals and poetic lyrics that evoke feelings of surrender, passion, and the awe-inspiring nature of love. It stands out in her discography as a track that leans more into grandeur and vulnerability than her usual rhythmic energy.
Lyrically, “Empire” speaks to the overpowering, transformative experience of falling in love—so intense that it brings down walls and builds new worlds. Shakira’s voice is commanding and ethereal as she sings about losing herself in love, yet finding strength in that surrender. The song gradually builds from a delicate, haunting start into a thunderous chorus, making the emotional journey all the more impactful.
The music video adds a dramatic visual layer, featuring imagery of a runaway bride, fire, nature, and symbolic rebirth. “Empire” may not have been her biggest commercial hit, but it remains a fan favorite for its sheer power and honesty. It’s a bold, cinematic song that reminds us of Shakira’s depth as a vocalist and storyteller.
10. “Can’t Remember to Forget You” (2014)
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is a sultry, genre-blending collaboration between Shakira and Rihanna that explores the irresistible pull of a toxic love. Released in 2014, the song combines reggae-influenced rhythms with catchy rock-pop hooks, creating a sound that’s both edgy and addictive. It’s a tale of emotional contradiction—wanting to let go of someone, but being drawn back in by the fire of passion and history.
Shakira and Rihanna bring two powerful energies to the track: Shakira’s raw, expressive voice contrasts beautifully with Rihanna’s smooth, effortless cool. Together, they create a dynamic tension that captures the push-and-pull of conflicted desire. The lyrics are filled with vulnerability and truth, speaking to anyone who’s ever struggled to walk away from someone they still crave.
The accompanying music video became instantly iconic, featuring the two superstars in a lavish mansion, mirroring each other’s movements with sensual choreography and confident allure. The visual chemistry only amplifies the song’s emotional intensity.
“Can’t Remember to Forget You” is more than just a pop duet—it’s a smart, stylish reflection on love’s complexity. With two of music’s boldest female voices at the helm, it delivers a powerful punch that lingers long after the last note.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
